DP World invests US$79M in Southampton cranes to handle 24,000 TEU megaships

UNITED KINGDOM – DP World has welcomed two of Europe’s largest quay cranes to Southampton as part of a £60 million (approx. US$79.4 million) investment to boost handling capacity and future-proof operations at the UK’s third-largest container port, enabling service for 24,000 TEU megaships.

Weighing more than 2,000 tonnes each and standing nearly 150 metres high, this is the first of two pairs of quay cranes set to arrive in 2026, with a second pair due later this year, bringing the total number of cranes servicing the port to sixteen.

Megaship Capacity and Efficiency Gains

The new cranes can service the largest container ships currently in operation, including 24,000 TEU megaships, as well as future, larger vessels not yet built. The cranes will support increased efficiency and productivity, improved reliability for customers, and help future-proof operations at the terminal.

The investment is expected to support faster vessel turnaround times and enhance Southampton’s ability to accommodate growing trade volumes.

Strategic Investment and Economic Impact

Kris Adams, DP World CEO UK Ports & Terminals, said: “Trade powers the UK’s growth and prosperity, and today’s arrival of two fantastic new quay cranes is a landmark moment for Southampton and for our long-standing operation in this vital port. DP World’s investment is equipping our terminal here in this major trading city for the future, ensuring we can handle the next generation of large container vessels, boosting our capacity and efficiency. Upgraded infrastructure at Southampton will allow us to better serve customers across the UK and strengthen our terminal’s contribution to the national economy.”

Satvir Kaur MP, Member of Parliament for Southampton Test, said: “Southampton has a proud maritime history, and our port continues to play a vital role in supporting local jobs, trade and economic growth across the city and beyond. This significant investment by DP World demonstrates confidence in the port’s future and will help strengthen Southampton’s position as one of the UK’s most important trading gateways.”

DP World’s UK container total exceeded 5 million TEU in 2025 in a national market handling over 9 million TEU, reinforcing the port’s significance to UK trade and economic growth.

These advancements solidify Southampton’s status as a vital hub for maritime commerce and local employment, strengthening its position as one of the UK’s most important trading gateways.

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